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A #LongMarch to reform

Followers of the Mihaj-ul Quran movement initiated by Dr. Muhammad Tahir ul-Qadri sit on top of buses on the way from Lahore to Islamabad. (REUTERS)

Around 50,000 supporters of cleric Dr. Muhammad Tahir ul-Qadri entered Islamabad peacefully on Monday and camped out on the main avenue of the city. Despite the security measures implemented by the Pakistani government, the protesters delivered heated speeches in favour of Qadri and expressed their hopes for change.

The protesters demanded an end to corruption and the elimination of frequent energy shortages. Some also voiced their desire for election reform.

Although the numbers of the protesters were far less than Qadri's expectations, the protesters were enthusiastic and shared their experiences on social media.

Islamabad today is seized. The quesiton is who seized it, its not you, its not me, its the government of Pakistan. All the road links inside Islamabad are sealed, not just that, but all links from GT road to Islamabad, from Pindi to Islamabad are sealed.Photo Jouranlism: Tahir ul Qadri Long March in Pictures | I Believe...

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If PTI comes to support TuQ, there's no doubt that this government will not retain for a second as PTI has the biggest street power.رانا محمّد عثمان

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On Twitter, Qadri announced that they had entered the capital.

The Lahore-Islamabad democracy march has peacefully entered the capital, so we render thanks to Almighty Allah. #14Jan #LongMarch #PakistanDr Tahir-ul-Qadri

Some were apprehensive about the next stage of the march, and expressed skepticism about the movement.

Brace yourself..islamabad to be the hub of violence #LongMarchRubabe

Qadri Sahib's luxurious bullet proof container has all the facilities and comforts not available to 95% Pakistanis.#longmarchAsad Munir